There is a solar company in Louisville, CO, just as there is one in China, who is working hard to make their mark in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Aside from companies like these, there are things that the everyday citizen can do to do their part to fight the greenhouse effect.

The greenhouse effect is a natural process where certain gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, are trapped within the earth’s atmosphere. These gases trap the warmth of the sun’s rays within the atmosphere so it remains a livable temperature. Without this natural process, the temperature of the earth’s surface would be below freezing. This is the process that allows our earth to be inhabitable. The problem arises when too much of these gases are trapped. They trap too much of the sun’s warmth and the earth becomes too warm (global warming).

A lot of damage has been done already, but there are things that people can do in order to make a difference in the world.

Reducing our energy consumption will play a large role in doing our part to aid in the fight against global warming. There is a lot of different things that can go into that. The production of electricity is a process that consumes a lot of energy so by cutting our usage, we can cut the consumption. Unplugging electronics, shutting off the lights, and using energy saving light bulbs are great places to start. Making sure that our homes are well insulated so they are more energy efficient is a good way to help as well. Energy Star approved appliances do their part in our homes everyday. Driving is another big part of the energy consumption. By using public transportation or walking, biking, or carpooling, we can really cut usage.

By planting a garden, trees, and flowers, we can help to improve the air quality everywhere. Within their process of photosynthesis (the process of making their sustenance), plants use carbon dioxide to do that and they expel oxygen. These are nature’s natural air purifiers. You can also reap the benefits of fresh vegetables and a relaxing pastime.

Another thing that people can do is educate themselves and the people around them about the greenhouse effect, how it damages the earth, and what we can do. Education and knowledge is the way that you battle and take control of any problem that you may face.

Although it may seem way out of your hands to do anything about it, if we stop thinking that way, it can work. From large corporations to that solar company in Lafayette, CO, to the regular person, we can all make a difference.